Competencies

Treatment of snoring with a snoring splint - sleep apnea treatment

Sleep apnoea is a condition that causes breathing to stop for short periods of time during sleep. The consequences for those affected are manifold, and restful sleep is hardly possible. This can lead to many health problems.

Fortunately, there are solutions. Because sleep apnea can be treated effectively with a snoring splint.

Fewer breathing interruptions with sleep apnea thanks to snoring splint

The breathing interruptions that are common in sleep apnoea syndrome are a problem for those affected. Snoring is characteristic of sleep apnoea. Snoring splints are therefore used to provide relief.

A snoring splint tailored to your individual needs clears the upper airways so that you can breathe regularly and shallowly during sleep - without any breathing interruptions, so that you can rest properly at night.

Sleep with breathing interruptions - sleep apnea

With this sleep disorder, breathing stops for longer than 10 seconds. The result is a lack of oxygen supply to the entire bloodstream - including the brain.
Unnoticed, this triggers constantly recurring wake-up reactions. A restful deep sleep is no longer possible - performance during the day is considerably impaired.

Sleep apnea can have serious consequences:

- High blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, increased risk of heart attack
- Increased risk of stroke
- Microsleep while driving and at work
- Depression and listlessness
- Disturbed sexuality

In short: the quality of life is reduced and life expectancy is lowered.

Treatment of snoring and sleep apnea with dental splints as a solution

Disturbing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea can be treated with dental splints, also known as protrusion splints. A digital dental impression can be taken to customize the splints to your individual needs. This forms the basis for a snoring splint to treat your sleep apnoea.

These are produced based on your digital dental impressions.
The dental splints hold the lower jaw, tongue and soft palate forward during sleep. This keeps the throat wide open, the slack throat muscles are stabilized and the lungs are supplied with enough air to saturate the blood with sufficient oxygen.
We manufacture the snoring splints for you in our in-house master laboratory using the 3D printing process.

As specialized orthodontists, we advise and adjust the protrusion splint so that you and your partner can sleep more peacefully and restfully at night.

Click here to go directly to the frequently asked questions / FAQs about the snoring splint

Are you sleeping well or are you still snoring?

Why do people snore at all?

Snoring is caused by the fluttering and swinging of muscles and soft tissue in the constricted throat. As the muscles relax during sleep, the lower jaw falls back with the tongue, narrowing the airway. Low tissue tension and obesity can exacerbate the problem. This is why snoring problems increase considerably with age. Sleep apnoea is not always the cause of snoring.

We will be happy to show you the treatment options in an initial consultation.

Frequency of snoring

60% of all men and 40% of all women over the age of 60 snore. Among 30-year-olds, only 10% of men and 5% of women do.

Those affected often don't even notice their snoring - but suffer from the consequences such as dry mouth, hoarseness and a sore throat. However, partners usually feel more disturbed by the snoring noises. A solution must therefore be found together. Dentists can help you!

Frequently asked questions / FAQ about the snoring splint

Is the snoring splint covered by health insurance?

Whether the snoring splint is paid for by the health insurance company depends on various factors, such as the type of snoring splint, the patient's individual clinical picture and the insurance conditions of the health insurance company.

As a rule, snoring splints are primarily used for obstructive sleep apnoea to improve breathing during sleep. In this case, the health insurance company may cover the costs of the snoring splint if a doctor's prescription is available and the necessity of the therapy is proven.

In the case of pure snoring therapy, the costs are generally less likely to be covered by health insurance. However, this always depends on the individual case and the individual insurance conditions. It is therefore advisable to obtain detailed information from your own health insurance company in advance about the assumption of costs and, if necessary, to obtain a declaration of assumption of costs.

How much does a snoring splint cost?

The cost of a snoring splint can vary depending on the type of snoring splint, the material used and the manufacturer. When fitting a snoring splint, it is advisable to consult an experienced orthodontist who has special knowledge and skills in the manufacture of snoring splints. As a rule, the price for an individually fitted snoring splint by an orthodontist in Germany is between 1,000 and 1,800 euros.

It is important to note that some health insurance companies cover the costs of a snoring splint if a doctor's prescription is available and the necessity of the therapy is proven. An experienced orthodontist can also help with the application for cost coverage and ensure appropriate treatment for the patient.

How good are snoring splints?

Snoring splints are a proven method of treating snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. A customized snoring splint made by an experienced orthodontist can be an effective solution to reduce or even eliminate snoring.

Snoring splints work by gently pulling the lower jaw forward, thereby clearing the airway by pulling the soft palate and tongue away from the back of the throat. This can help to reduce snoring and apnea during sleep.

Compared to other treatment methods such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy or surgery to alter the airway, snoring splints are generally less invasive and can be applied more easily.

An experienced orthodontist can custom-fit a snoring splint and ensure that it fits properly and is comfortable to wear. A well-fitted snoring splint can improve sleep quality, reduce snoring and offer an alternative to other more invasive treatments.

Who prescribes a snoring splint?

A snoring splint can be prescribed by a dentist, orthodontist or sleep specialist. However, an orthodontist has special knowledge and skills in making and fitting snoring splints, as they are often used in conjunction with misaligned jaws or teeth.

A snoring splint can be prescribed for various reasons, such as snoring or mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Before fitting a snoring splint, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis and identify the causes of snoring. An experienced orthodontist can make a precise diagnosis and ensure that the snoring splint is customized and fits perfectly.

It is important to note that the costs of a snoring splint are generally only covered by health insurance if a doctor's prescription is available and the necessity of the therapy is proven. An orthodontist in Cologne can help with the application for cost coverage and ensure appropriate treatment for the patient.

What helps immediately against snoring?

There are various options that can help to reduce or eliminate snoring immediately:

Change your sleeping position: Changing your sleeping position can help to reduce snoring. Lying on your side or raising your head slightly can improve the flow of air and make breathing easier.
Relaxing the jaw muscles: Relaxed jaw muscles can help to reduce snoring. An experienced orthodontist can offer special techniques and exercises to relax the jaw muscles.
Nasal plasters or nasal clips: Nasal plasters or nasal clips can help to improve nasal flow and reduce snoring.
Avoid alcohol and tranquilizers: Alcohol and sedatives can relax the muscles of the larynx and make snoring worse. It is therefore advisable to refrain from consuming these substances.
Use of snoring splints: A customized snoring splint made by an experienced orthodontist can be an effective solution to reduce or even eliminate snoring.

An orthodontist can make a comprehensive diagnosis and offer a customized therapy for the individual patient. It is therefore advisable to seek advice from an experienced orthodontist to get the best options for reducing snoring.

Can the dentist help with snoring?

A dentist can help with snoring by improving the patient's oral health and fitting a snoring splint if necessary. However, an experienced orthodontist has specialized knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and treatment of jaw misalignment and airway problems that are often related to snoring.

An orthodontist can make a comprehensive diagnosis and offer customized therapy for the individual patient, such as fitting a snoring splint, relaxing the jaw muscles or correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. By specifically treating the causes of snoring, an experienced orthodontist can help to reduce or even eliminate snoring in the long term.

It is therefore advisable to seek advice from an experienced orthodontist to get the best options for reducing snoring.

Can the ENT doctor help with snoring?

An ENT specialist can help with snoring by examining the patient's airway and recommending medical treatment if necessary, such as nasal surgery or CPAP therapy. However, an experienced orthodontist has specialized knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and treatment of jaw misalignment and airway problems that are often related to snoring.

It is therefore advisable to seek advice from an experienced orthodontist for the best options to reduce snoring. An orthodontist can also work closely with an ENT specialist to ensure a comprehensive diagnosis and effective treatment.

How effective are snoring splints?

A well-fitted snoring splint can improve sleep quality, reduce snoring and offer an alternative to other more invasive treatments. An experienced orthodontist can custom-fit a snoring appliance and ensure that it fits properly and is comfortable to wear. With a suitable snoring splint, snoring can be successfully reduced or even eliminated in most patients.

Which snoring splint is the best?

There are different types of snoring splints on the market, but the best snoring splint depends on the patient's individual needs. A customized snoring splint made by an experienced orthodontist is usually the best choice.

A good snoring splint should be comfortable and easy to wear without disturbing the patient's sleep. It should also be made of high-quality materials that are durable and hygienic. A custom-made snoring splint may also be the best choice, as it is designed specifically for the patient's anatomy for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

An experienced orthodontist can customize a snoring splint and ensure that it fits properly and is effective. They can also make a comprehensive diagnosis and ensure that a snoring splint is the right treatment option for the patient. With a customized fit, the snoring splint can work optimally and successfully reduce or even eliminate snoring in most patients.

Where can I get a snoring splint?

A snoring splint can be purchased from various suppliers, such as online retailers, pharmacies or dentists. However, an orthodontist is the best person to contact when it comes to fitting and fitting a snoring splint.

An experienced orthodontist has specialized knowledge and skills in the diagnosis and treatment of jaw misalignment and airway problems that are often related to snoring. By customizing the snoring splint, an orthodontist can ensure that it fits perfectly and is comfortable to wear. In addition, an orthodontist can make a comprehensive diagnosis and ensure that a snoring splint is the right treatment option for the patient.

It is important to note that the costs of a snoring splint are generally only covered by health insurance if a doctor's prescription is available and the necessity of the therapy is proven. An orthodontist can help with the application for cost coverage and ensure appropriate treatment for the patient.

How long does a snoring splint last?

The lifespan of a snoring splint depends on various factors, such as the quality of the materials, frequency of use and maintenance. However, a customized snoring splint made by an experienced orthodontist can usually last a long time and provide an effective solution for reducing snoring.

An experienced orthodontist can ensure that the snore guard is made of high-quality materials and has a custom-fit shape that optimizes comfort and effectiveness. In addition, an orthodontist can make recommendations for the care and maintenance of the snore guard to extend its lifespan.

However, it is important to note that the snoring splint can become worn or damaged over time, especially with regular use. It is therefore advisable to check the snoring splint regularly for wear and damage and, if necessary, to have a new fitting made to ensure its effectiveness and lifespan. An orthodontist can regularly check the condition of the snore guard and ensure that it is working optimally.

How do you stop someone from snoring?

Stopping snoring requires targeted treatment of the causes of snoring. An experienced orthodontist can help by making a comprehensive diagnosis and offering a customized therapy that targets the specific causes of snoring.

First of all, it is important to identify the cause of snoring, which can range from a narrowed airway to a misaligned jaw or teeth. The orthodontist can then recommend a customized treatment option, such as a snoring splint, jaw correction or a relaxation exercise for the jaw muscles.

A snoring splint can help to clear the airway by gently pulling the lower jaw forward and pulling the soft palate and tongue away from the back of the throat. Jaw correction can also help to open the airways and reduce snoring.

Targeted relaxation of the jaw muscles through certain exercises or massages can also help to reduce snoring. An orthodontist can support the patient in performing such exercises and ensure that they effectively relax the jaw muscles.

By treating the causes of snoring individually and specifically, an experienced orthodontist can help to reduce or even eliminate snoring in most patients.

Can you stop snoring?

Snoring can be caused by a variety of factors, including anatomical features or muscular problems in the throat and jaw. While certain exercises or training methods can help relax the jaw muscles and reduce snoring, customized treatment by an experienced orthodontist may be more effective.

An orthodontist in Cologne can carry out a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the causes of snoring and offer a customized therapy. This may include a snoring splint or jaw correction to clear the airways and reduce snoring.

An experienced orthodontist can also recommend special exercises or massages to relax the jaw muscles and reduce snoring. However, these exercises should be performed systematically and regularly in order to achieve an effective reduction in snoring.

Overall, customized treatment by an experienced orthodontist can be an effective way to reduce or even eliminate snoring. While certain exercises or training methods may play a role, a targeted diagnosis and treatment by an orthodontist is often more effective and can provide long-term results.

Types of obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs in various degrees of severity and is measured using the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI), which indicates the number of breathing interruptions per hour. An AHI of up to five is considered harmless. Values above this are categorized as mild (AHI 5 to 15), moderate (AHI 15 to 30) and severe (AHI over 30), depending on the frequency of breathing interruptions. The more severe the disorder, the higher the risk of possible secondary diseases such as strokes and heart attacks.

Treatment of snoring and sleep apnea: How snoring splints and CPAP masks can help

Snoring affects many people and can be a burden not only for the person affected, but also for their partner. However, there are effective treatment options to reduce or even completely eliminate snoring. In this article, you will learn more about the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea syndrome, in particular the use of anti-snoring splints and CPAP masks.

Loud snoring and sleep apnea syndrome

Loud snoring occurs when the upper airways become constricted or partially blocked during sleep. In some cases, snoring can indicate a more serious condition known as sleep apnoea syndrome. This involves pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to a lack of oxygen and an increased cardiovascular risk. Treating snoring and sleep apnoea is therefore not only important for the quality of life of those affected, but also for their health.

The role of the upper and lower jaw in the treatment of snoring

The position of the upper and lower jaw can have a significant influence on snoring. Moving the lower jaw forward can open the upper airways and reduce or prevent snoring. This is where so-called snoring splints are used, which are individually fitted and hold the lower jaw in a slightly forward position during sleep.

Different snoring splints and their application

There are various snoring splints on the market that differ in shape and material. It is important that the splint is individually fitted to ensure the best possible wearing comfort and effective forward displacement of the lower jaw. Patients should therefore seek advice from a specialist orthodontist in Cologne, for example, in order to find the right anti-snoring splint.

The CPAP mask for sleep apnea

In severe cases of sleep apnoea, an anti-snoring splint alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, a CPAP mask (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) can be used. This mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth and ensures that the upper airways are kept open by a continuous flow of air. This prevents snoring and reduces breathing interruptions caused by sleep apnoea. However, a CPAP mask should only be used under medical guidance and supervision.

Cooperation with medical experts

To find the best possible sleep apnea treatment or treatment for snoring, sufferers should work closely with specialists and sleep laboratories. These experts can help to make the correct diagnosis and select the most suitable treatment method, be it a snoring splint, CPAP mask or other therapy.

Further measures to improve sleep

In addition to the above-mentioned measures to improve sleep and the use of aids such as snoring splints or CPAP masks, other customized solutions can be considered. One of these customized aids could be a custom snoring splint, also known as a mandibular advancement splint. This type of splint is customized to fit the patient's teeth and helps to keep the airway clear during sleep.

The individual snoring splint works by moving the lower jaw slightly forward. This is known as protrusion and helps to widen the throat. This prevents the tongue and soft palate from falling backwards during sleep and blocking the airways. This keeps the airflow unobstructed, which can lead to more peaceful sleep and a reduction in snoring. For optimum effect, the individual snoring splint should be held in position for at least ten seconds.

To ensure the effectiveness of this snoring appliance, close collaboration with medical professionals such as ear, nose and throat specialists and orthodontists is crucial. They can carry out a thorough examination, determine the exact cause of the snoring and suggest the most suitable treatment based on this information. This may include a customized snoring splint or other methods such as a CPAP mask.

However, the choice of treatment method should always take into account the patient's individual circumstances and needs. Individual advice and support is therefore essential for the success of the therapy. Such a tailored approach can significantly improve the quality of life and health of those affected.

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